SAMS is Scotland’s largest and oldest independent marine research organisation delivering innovative, world-class marine science solutions to developing a sustainable relationship with the marine environment. This is done through research, education, services to business and public engagement. SAMS is also an academic partner of the University of the Highlands and Islands.

SAMS has research expertise in areas including Arctic Seas, Climate Change, Marine Renewable Energy, Aquaculture, Conservation, Eosystem Function, Biotechnology and more. SAMS is core to the modern and well-equipped European Marine Science Park at the scenic Dunstaffnage peninsula near Oban, Argyll and employs over 160 staff – including physical oceanographers, hydrographers, marine geologists, biogeochemists, microbial and molecular biologists, ecologists, social scientists and modellers.

SAMS’ research is supported by an amazing infrastructure including research vessels, indoor and outdoor research aquaria, the Culture Collection of Algae and Protozoa and the Scottish Marine Robotics Facility.

As well as research SAMS, delivers a comprehensive programme of education at undergraduate, post-graduate and PhD levels for over 200 full-time students. SAMS also offers short CPD courses and operates a field studies centre for visiting groups.

SAMS runs the commercial subsidiary SAMS Enterprise, which provides products and services to research and industry, as well as marine environmental survey and consultancy work. SAMS also operates the business incubator the European Centre for Marine Biotechnology.